Windows for Showers: Which Type is Best?

Need more natural light in your bathroom but worried you don’t have the space to do it? Windows for showers may be the do-it-all solution you’ve been looking for.

A shower window brings in lots of light right where you need it. As a bonus, you also get a showstopper design element added to your bathroom, no matter what the size of it may be. In this article, we will discuss various shower window ideas, their pros and cons, and rough cost estimates.

How to Pick Glass and Frame For a Shower Window

First things first: just like every other window in your home, your primary concern should be safety in addition to getting all the extra light a window provides.

A shower window should be made of tempered glass, which is strong, durable, and resistant to breakage. Tempered glass shatters into small pieces instead of sharp shards, and many states and counties require it be used in residential construction. 

You also need to pick a frame material that stands up well to moisture and humidity. If you don’t select a waterproof shower window, you may wind up dealing with mold and rot. Vinyl and fiberglass are the best frame materials for a shower window.

Shower Windows: Six Best Options

From providing privacy to letting in light and views to providing architectural interest, here are our favorite window types for showers.

1. Obscured Glass

Cost: Approximately $125 per square foot more expensive than a clear window

You can choose nearly any type of window for your shower and then choose glass that ensures privacy. The most popular obscured glass options include:

Frosted glass. Frosted glass looks opaque instead of transparent. You may still be able to make out colors and general shapes through frosted glass depending on which type you choose. Frosted glass is made by sandblasting regular glass. It is a great option for boosting natural light in a room while maintaining privacy.

Textured glass. This can refer to any type of glass that is etched, designed, or otherwise textured to obscure your vision through the glass. Different window manufacturers provide different designs. You could find anything from a ribbed/reed design to glass that looks like it’s covered in fallen rain. 

2. Glass Block Shower Window

Cost: $18 – $25 per block

A glass block window is another popular shower window idea. This window in a shower could be a simple square or could stack from floor to ceiling. You have the ultimate creative control here since the blocks are sold in multiple sizes and can be arranged in multiple configurations.

In addition to being affordable, this type of window is excellent at maintaining privacy. It is a very popular choice not only for shower windows, but also for bathroom windows in general.

3. Transom Window

Cost: $140 – $300

Transom windows are typically rectangular, and they are placed high on the wall. With a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, you can find a transom window that fits in anything from a walk-in shower to a shower stall. These are also one of the cheaper window options available.

Being placed higher up and being significantly shorter than other windows means automatic privacy. However, if you find that your shower is angled in such a way that neighbors or pedestrians may still be able to see in, you can have the glass frosted or tinted.

4. Jalousie Window

Cost: $175 – $375

Never heard of this window type? You’re not alone. These are still popular in older homes, but modern versions — while beautiful — are rarer than other window types.

Instead of a pane of glass, jalousie windows are made of multiple slats of glass (or even wood or aluminum) that are layered on top of each other like shingles or siding. They are able to be angled opened or closed. 

You will only want to pursue this window type if you live in a particularly warm region since they are not well-insulated. If you live somewhere hot, this unique window can be made with frosted glass, and it provides a stunning focal point. You can also open the slats to air out humidity. You can even leave it open for an outdoor shower-feel while still inside.

5. Picture Window

Cost: $370 – $795

A picture window is a single sheet of glass that does not open or close.

You can pick the right shape and size for your space. In addition to providing stellar views, you will get the absolute most natural light with a picture window. This is a larger window type and is an especially great choice for a window for walk-in showers.

6. Round Window

Cost: $250 – $840

An excellent way to add architectural interest and light to your shower is with a circular window. This eye-catching design acts as a natural show-stopper, whether it’s in your shower or in your bathroom in general, as in the photo below. If privacy is not a concern, then the full effect of the translucent glass and the unusual shape will make your shower your favorite place in the house.

However, be aware that if you are tiling the shower wall now or in the future, you may find the expense greater since so many cuts will need to be made to accommodate the window shape.

Shower Window Cover

Already have a shower window? Curtains or blinds provide privacy while still letting in natural light. Waterproof curtains or blinds can be removed and washed for easy maintenance. You may also want to consider shutters in a waterproof material.

Looking for a more permanent solution? You can replace your glass with privacy glass. You may even be able to have your current window sand-blasted right in the frame, which will give you a frosted glass window in a fraction of the time.

The window that’s best for you will depend on how much space you have available, the amount of privacy you need, and your budget. Changing more than just a window? Use our bathroom remodel cost calculator to help budget your project.

Ready to get started with your window project? Modernize can match you with up to four local pros in your area.